But first. . .

Sweet Caroline is this months Women of Faith Book Club novel! Thank you Thomas Nelson and Women of Faith! Check out my interview and other tidbits here.

Now, on to the ACFW Conference.

Susie and I will be meeting up in Denver tomorrow for the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Conference. We are really excited. One, to meet up with each other and all of our Voices, as well as ACFW friends.

Two, to teach a Continuing Education class “Become Your Own Book Therapist.” We’ll give you all of our secrets!

A conference can be an exciting as well as stressful time. Meeting old and new friends, going to be late, getting up early. Attending classes. Making editor and agent appointments. One moment thinking you’re on a great track and on the next you’re convinced you’re the worst author in the history of authoring.

Here are some hints for making the most of the ACFW conference:

1. Try to get some sleep.

2. Smile. A lot.

3. Greet others, even if they are scowling.

4. Listen more than you talk.

5. Visit the prayer room if you’re feeling beat up and weary.

6. Come to Harp & Bowl Friday night at 9:00 for worship and prayer — give to the Lord and be refreshed.

7. Ask for help or prayer if you need it.

8. Know God has a plan for you and He’s not forgotten you.

9. Guard your words. Never know who’s listening.

10. Have fun! Above all, have fun!

And oh, wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

Most of my major networking came during ACFW conferences. Those lead to big strides in my career. So, don’t be too shy. And I also know, God opened and closed doors accordingly. Have faith. Have faith.

Pray before you leave. Ask the Lord to be your editor, agent and promoter. Lead you to the people He wants in your life. I knew I’d pick the “wrong” people. Like, those I liked and wanted to build a relationship with didn’t feel the same about me. So, I let God handle the “picking.”

Make goals. List one or two major things you want to accomplish at conference. Attend a workshop every hour. Talk to two agents during meals. Meet a certain author. Say hi to a certain editor. Make all the morning worship and devo times. Set goals. Go to the My Book Therapy Pizza Party.

And oh yeah, have fun.
See you soon.